**Exploring Housing Options in London: A Master’s Student’s Journey**
*Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has allowed me to gain insights about this dynamic city. London boasts a rich cultural diversity, mirrored in its wide range of housing options. For students and professionals alike, there is an abundance of choices available. From student accommodations to private leases, you can discover everything from ensuite and communal bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For home-based students, arranging apartment viewings is simple, while international students can take advantage of websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to virtually check out their future residences, evaluate available facilities, and determine closeness to public transportation.
In my own quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London. I desired to be near major landmarks, entertainment spots, and above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city also features an extensive transport network, incorporating the Underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement across these zones. Nevertheless, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 a day. To economize, I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than depend on public transportation. Thankfully, the Oyster card has made my university commute more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail networks extend beyond the Underground, serving areas outside the heart of London. The costs for these services depend on distance and each train operator’s fare arrangement.
Residing in Central London offers advantages—primarily its closeness to key attractions—but it also leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly lessened our rent. I opted to stay in intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—a goal that would have been tougher to meet in private accommodations.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Among the prevalent supermarket chains in London are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly helpful, especially during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can prove challenging. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, giving rise to a fascinating array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian demographic, featuring many Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attires. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, thrives with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of the various lively community neighborhoods in London.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. As you embark on your journey to find a new home in this thriving city, embrace the array of housing options available, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that London presents.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
Categorised under [Uncategorized](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/category/uncategorized/)
Tagged [accommodation](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/accommodation/), [Housing](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/housing/), [London Life](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/london-life/), [master’s](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/masters/)